What is proxen 500? Understanding a Prescription Naproxen Medication

October 6, 2025 •

3 min read

Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by blocking the body's production of substances that cause pain, fever, and inflammation. What is proxen 500? It refers to a brand name for a prescription-strength dosage of this active ingredient, used to manage a range of painful, inflammatory conditions. It is a more potent and longer-lasting option than its lower-dose, over-the-counter counterparts.

Quick Summary

Proxen 500 is a brand name for prescription-strength naproxen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for pain, inflammation, and stiffness from conditions like arthritis and gout. As a prescription dose, it carries a higher risk of certain side effects, necessitating careful use under medical supervision.

Key Points

Brand Name for Naproxen: Proxen 500 is a brand name for prescription-strength naproxen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
Treats Pain and Inflammation: It is prescribed to relieve pain, swelling, and stiffness caused by conditions such as various types of arthritis, gout, tendinitis, and menstrual cramps.
Prescription-Only Dosage: This strength requires a doctor's prescription, distinguishing it from lower-dose, over-the-counter naproxen products.
Higher Risk Profile: Due to its prescription strength, Proxen 500 carries a greater risk of serious side effects, including cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke) and gastrointestinal issues (bleeding, ulcers).
Longer-Lasting Effect: Proxen (naproxen) provides longer-lasting pain relief than ibuprofen, typically requiring dosing less frequently.
Important Warnings: It is not safe for everyone, particularly those with heart disease, a history of stomach bleeding, or during certain stages of pregnancy.
Take with Food: To protect the stomach, the medication should always be taken with food, milk, or an antacid.

What is Proxen 500 and how does it work?

Proxen 500 is a brand name that contains naproxen, an NSAID that inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, reducing the production of prostaglandins that cause inflammation, pain, and fever. It manages symptoms but does not cure the underlying condition.

Common uses and conditions treated by Proxen 500

Proxen 500 is prescribed for various inflammatory and painful conditions, often for more severe or chronic issues than over-the-counter options. Uses include:

Arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and juvenile arthritis.
Inflammatory Conditions: Tendonitis and bursitis.
Acute Gout: Manages pain associated with gout.
Primary Dysmenorrhea: Treats severe menstrual cramps.
Mild to Moderate Pain: Relief for muscle aches, strains, or sprains.

How to take Proxen 500 safely

Follow your doctor's instructions for safe and effective use.

Take with Food: Always take with food or milk to reduce gastrointestinal side effects.
Full Glass of Water: Swallow with water.
Do Not Crush Extended-Release: Swallow extended-release tablets whole to prevent rapid drug release.
Take as Prescribed: Do not exceed the prescribed dose or frequency. Full effects for chronic conditions may take up to two weeks.

Potential side effects and serious risks

Proxen 500 can cause side effects, ranging from mild to serious. Medical guidance is crucial.

Common Side Effects: Include heartburn, stomach pain, nausea, bloating, headaches, dizziness, drowsiness, and tinnitus.
Serious Gastrointestinal Risks: Increased risk of ulcers, bleeding, and perforation, particularly with long-term use or in certain individuals.
Serious Cardiovascular Risks: Can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and related events. This risk exists at any time and may increase with longer treatment. It is not advised after a recent heart attack or during heart surgery.
Kidney Problems: NSAIDs can cause kidney issues, especially in vulnerable individuals.

Proxen (Naproxen) 500 vs. Other NSAIDs

Proxen (naproxen) differs from other NSAIDs like ibuprofen in several ways:


Feature	Proxen (Naproxen)	Ibuprofen (e.g., Advil, Motrin)	Aspirin	Diclofenac
Typical Dose Frequency	Every 8-12 hours due to longer half-life.	Every 4-6 hours due to shorter half-life.	Varies, often every 4-6 hours for pain.	Varies, also available as extended-release.
Speed of Onset	Slower onset, typically within an hour.	Faster acting, within 20-30 minutes.	Variable; rapid onset for chewable tablets.	Variable.
Duration of Action	Longer-lasting, up to 12 hours.	Shorter-lasting, about 4-6 hours.	Shorter duration.	Variable, some forms are extended-release.
Gastrointestinal Risk	Higher risk of GI side effects compared to lower-dose ibuprofen.	Lower risk of GI bleeding and ulcers compared to naproxen, especially at lower doses.	Significant risk of stomach irritation and bleeding.	Gastrointestinal risks similar to other NSAIDs.
Cardiovascular Risk	Can increase risk of heart attack/stroke, especially with long-term use.	Can increase risk of heart attack/stroke, but potentially less than naproxen at standard doses.	Does not carry the same heart attack/stroke risk profile; often used for prevention.	Can increase risk of heart attack/stroke.

Who should not take Proxen 500?

Inform your doctor of your medical history before taking Proxen 500. Contraindications and precautions include:

Allergies: Avoid if allergic to naproxen, aspirin, or other NSAIDs.
Heart Conditions: Use with caution if you have heart disease or cardiovascular risk factors. It is contraindicated for perioperative pain during CABG surgery.
Gastrointestinal Issues: Higher risk of complications with a history of ulcers or bleeding.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not recommended after 20 weeks of pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Kidney or Liver Disease: Use with extreme caution as it can worsen these conditions.

Conclusion

Proxen 500 is a prescription-strength NSAID (naproxen) used for chronic and acute pain and inflammation in conditions like arthritis and gout. It offers longer-lasting relief than ibuprofen but poses a higher risk of serious GI and cardiovascular side effects, requiring medical supervision. For more information, refer to authoritative sources such as the MedlinePlus Drug Information page. Always follow your doctor's guidance and report any concerns or side effects immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Proxen 500 is not the same as Aleve. While both contain the active ingredient naproxen, Aleve is a lower-dose, over-the-counter (OTC) version, typically available in different strengths. Proxen 500 is a higher-strength, prescription-only medication.

The frequency depends on your condition and your doctor's instructions. For conditions like arthritis, it is typically taken a specific number of times a day, as prescribed by your doctor. You should always follow the specific dosing schedule your doctor provides.

No, you should not take Proxen 500 with ibuprofen or any other NSAID. Combining different NSAIDs significantly increases the risk of serious side effects, particularly stomach bleeding and ulcers.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Drowsiness is a potential side effect of naproxen, though it does not affect everyone. If you experience this, you should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you.

To minimize the risk of stomach irritation and side effects like heartburn, it is strongly recommended to take Proxen 500 with food, milk, or an antacid. It should not be taken on an empty stomach unless specifically instructed by a doctor.

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, unexplained weight gain, vomiting blood or material resembling coffee grounds, black or tarry stools, or severe swelling.